What is Washington’s Birthday?

First celebrated in 1880 and made an official holiday in 1885, Washington’s Birthday celebrates and honors the life of George Washington, the first president of the United States. Although legally designated as Washington’s Birthday, this federal holiday is also known and, in some states, officially celebrated as President’s Day, a day to honor all past U.S. presidents.

When is Washington’s Birthday?

Originally held on February 22, the date of Washington’s birth, Washington’s Birthday has been celebrated on the third Monday of February since 1971.

How do people celebrate Washington’s Birthday?

As a federal holiday, schools and some workplaces close in observance of Washington’s Birthday. Many stores celebrate Washington’s Birthday by holding or starting sales, typically called a “President’s Day Sale.”